The 33-year-old actress, who first worked with Nichols in the revival of Chekhov’s “The Seagull,” issued a statement to E! News conveying her condolences.

“There’s nothing good enough I can write that would do Mike justice,” it read. “He was the one who had the best words, the right hug for hard times, the funny comment to diffuse your pain. He saved me again and again. He was the best way to be a person and an artist. And the most, most fun. I send my deepest love to Diane, Jenny, Max and Daisy and their children, who filled his days with light.”

Portman and Nichols would work together again on the 2004 film “Closer,” which brought Portman her very first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

“The View” co-host Whoopi Goldberg broke down in tears while talking about Nichols on Thursday’s episode. Goldberg credits Nichols for jumpstarting her career.

Nichols, also known for directing numerous films including “The Graduate” and “Working Girl,” died suddenly Wednesday from cardiac arrest. He was 83.